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Active Living

Managing Urinary Incontinence

By Gwen Morrison

Harry Campos of Severna Park, Md., uses the disposable undergarments throughout the day. At night he finds the cloth absorbency products work best for his needs. "I lead a very active life even though I am incontinent," he says. "But I can't go out in public without some sort of protection. At night I wear absorbent pants to bed covered with plastic pants. I have an absorbent pad on my side of the bed just in case of leaks."

For Campos and others who suffer from urinary incontinence, absorbency products have allowed them the freedom to maintain an active lifestyle with confidence. "Depending on the product I wear, I can go for several hours without changing," says Campos. "I have four grandchildren, and we play, go boating, fishing, camping all the normal things in life."

Newman says that absorbency products increase the sense of security and freedom for those who experience incontinence. "They don't have to worry about urine leakage through clothing," she says. "This assists in decreasing isolation, allowing them the freedom go out and socialize."

For most, this is a key issue in dealing with incontinence. "Today's absorbency products represent a valuable 'ally' for individuals in offering them the protective assurance they need to maintain an active lifestyle," says Nancy Muller, executive director of the NAFC. "Used in combination with behavioral therapies, as well as medications, they can help preserve personal dignity and combat isolation."